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Children traveling within the United States with only one parent or without either parent have few requirements. Special requirements for parental permission primarily affect children traveling abroad and those crossing international borders. The stricter requirements protect children from kidnapping and international custody dispute situations. Requirements vary by destination country, so check with the specific nation's consular office to verify that your child is carrying the correct documentation for travel.

Passports

Passports are necessary for minors traveling abroad via air travel, whether they are traveling with their parents, alone or with another adult. Travel to Canada and Mexico doesn't require a passport if it's by land or sea. The child must apply for a passport in person regardless of age. A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to the passport office and sign Form DS-11 in front of the passport agent. If both legal parents can't accompany the child to the passport office, the second parent must submit a notarized Statement of Consent: Form DS-3053.

Parental Consent Forms

Parental consent forms aren't required for all international destinations or for travel within the U.S., but the U.S. Department of State recommends that a child carries one if he is not traveling with his parents or if he is traveling with only one parent. There is no official consent form, so you must type your own. Include the child's name, travel companion name, where they are traveling, a statement of your permission, your name and your contact information. Some countries may require notarization of the letter.

Birth Certificate and Identification

Bring the child's birth certificate on all travel, regardless of whether the child is traveling with her parents, another adult or a group. Copies of adoption certificates or legal guardianship papers are also necessary for border agents to verify that the child is not a victim of kidnapping or a custody battle. Official photo identification isn't necessary for children under age 16. Those ages 16 and 17 should carry photo identification. A passport suffices, but a government-issued identification card is sufficient for most travel to Canada and Mexico.

Group Travel

Children traveling with a group, such as for a school, organization or church trip, have special requirements for parental permission. The group leader is in charge of gathering and carrying the necessary paperwork. The group leader must carry a letter of consent detailing the purpose of travel, the group leader's name, the children's names and home contact information and a signed statement that the group leader has parental permission to travel with the children. The children still must carry their required identification and a copy of their birth certificates.

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About the Author

Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.